Patnaik was known for equanimity and steady intellect. Perhaps, that was the reason he was the most adorable in politics. He is remembered for his contribution in society, journalism, literature and politics.

Born on January 3, 1927, in Rameswar in Puri district, JB Patnaik had set the record as the Chief Minister of Odisha holding the post for longest period before present CM Naveen Patnaik.

He assumed the office as the CM from 1980 to 1989 and again from 1995 to 1999.

The Congressman was appointed as the president of the party’s state unit in 1950. He was elected to Lok Sabha for the first time in 1971 and he was appointed as the minister in Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s ministry in 1973.

In 2009, Patnaik was appointed as the Governor of Assam.

He had immense contribution in field of journalism and literature. He was the editor of Odia daily ‘Prajatantra’. The magazine ‘Pourush’ was born from his thoughts and experience.